Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Cosmetic Brow, Lash Enhancement & Lip Blushing

IMPORTANT NOTICE

If you are pregnant or nursing, you cannot be tattooed. No exceptions.

Cosmetic tattooing is a medical-adjacent procedure. Proper healing and results depend on skin health, immune response, and strict adherence to pre- and post-care instructions.

BROW TATTOO FAQ

Do you offer microblading?

No. Microblading is no longer offered at this studio.

Microblading is not suitable for most skin types, causes more trauma to the skin, and often results in blurry or uneven healed results over time. All artists at this studio specialize in modern cosmetic tattooing techniques that prioritize skin integrity, longevity, and natural healed results.

What is the difference between microblading and powder brows?

Microblading

A manual technique using a blade to create hair-like cuts in the skin. While it may look appealing when fresh, it frequently heals poorly—especially on oily, mature, or textured skin.

Powder Brows

A cosmetic tattoo performed with a tattoo machine using diluted pigment to create a soft, powdery effect. When applied correctly, powder brows heal natural and airy—not harsh or “marker-like.”

This technique is suitable for most skin types and ages and typically has better long-term results.

How long does the appointment take?

• Initial Session: Approximately 2 hours
  Includes consultation, detailed mapping, pigment selection, and the procedure.
• Touch-Up Session: Approximately 1.5–2 hours
  Scheduled 8–12 weeks after the initial session to refine and perfect results.

How long is the healing process?

• Brows will appear dark immediately after—this is normal.
• Expect 30–40% fading during healing.
• Light scabbing or flaking may occur. Do not pick.
• Surface healing: 7–14 days
• Final color settles over 4–6 weeks

Around week two, brows may appear very light or “washed out.” This is known as milky skin, a normal phase of tattoo healing. True color will return once healing is complete.

Is the touch-up session necessary?

Yes. Everyone heals differently.

The touch-up session allows us to:

• Reinforce areas that healed lighter
• Adjust color depth
• Refine shape and symmetry

Oily skin types often require additional reinforcement. This session is essential for long-term results.

Can I come in sooner than 8 weeks for my touch-up?

No. Touch-ups performed too early can damage healing tissue and compromise results. Skin must be fully healed before additional pigment is implanted.

Is it painful?

Discomfort is generally mild.

Most clients describe the sensation as light scratching or pressure. A topical anesthetic may be applied after the skin is open, though minimal numbing is preferred to ensure proper pigment retention.

Mild redness or swelling after the procedure is normal. Tylenol may be taken. Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen.

How long do powder brows last?

Typically 1–3 years, depending on:

• Skin type
• Age
• Lifestyle
• Skincare routine

Retinol, acids, chemical peels, and sun exposure will cause faster fading. Maintenance is recommended every 9–18 months.

PRE-CARE INSTRUCTIONS

To ensure optimal results:

• No alcohol, caffeine, aspirin, or blood-thinning supplements 72 hours prior
• No tanning or sunburn
• No chemical peels or exfoliants for 2 weeks
• No retinol or vitamin A products near the brow area for up to 90 days (see candidate section below)

POST-CARE INSTRUCTIONS

For 10–14 days:

• Clean brows gently morning and night with approved cleanser
• Apply a thin layer of aftercare balm (do not over-apply)
• Keep brows dry—no soaking, steam, or swimming
• No makeup on brows for 10 days
• Avoid sweating, saunas, tanning
• Do not pick or peel

Botox must be done at least 2 weeks before or after your appointment.

CANDIDATE & MEDICAL CONSIDERATIONS

You are NOT a candidate if you:

• Are pregnant or nursing (no exceptions)
• Are currently using Accutane or have used it within the past 12 months
• Have active skin infections, rashes, or open wounds in the brow area
• Have uncontrolled medical conditions that severely impair healing

Medical Conditions Requiring Caution or Clearance

You may still be eligible, but healing and results may vary:

• Currently undergoing chemotherapy
  ▸ A written doctor’s note is required
  ▸ Immune suppression can significantly affect healing and pigment retention
• Autoimmune disorders
  ▸ May proceed with informed consent
  ▸ Autoimmune conditions can negatively affect healing and color retention
  ▸ Results are not guaranteed
• Diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2)
  ▸ May require medical clearance
  ▸ Healing may be slower and retention unpredictable
• History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
  ▸ Cosmetic tattooing may not be recommended

Blood Thinners

• Clients actively taking blood thinners must be off for a minimum of 72 hours, only with physician approval
• Excessive bleeding during the procedure can lead to poor pigment retention

Botox & Injectables

• Botox is allowed, but must be done at least 6 weeks prior to your brow appointment
• Brows must be evaluated in their natural resting position
• Mapping brows while Botox is active can cause uneven results once it wears off
• Botox must also be scheduled no sooner than 2 weeks after your tattoo appointment

Retinol, Retinoids & Active Skincare

• Ideal: Discontinue retinol and vitamin A products for 90 days prior
• Lower-strength retinols: Minimum 6 weeks prior, with caution
• Retinol accelerates skin cell turnover and can cause:
   
  • Excessive bleeding during the procedure
  • Poor pigment retention
  • Uneven healing
  • Premature fading

Clients who do not fully discontinue retinol must understand results may be compromised.

Additional Restrictions

You may not be suitable if you:

• Have had a deep tan, sunburn, or chemical peel within the last 2 weeks
• Have had recent facial treatments that compromise the skin barrier
• Are allergic to topical anesthetics (lidocaine, prilocaine, benzocaine, tetracaine, epinephrine)

RISKS & COMPLICATIONS

All procedures are performed using sterile, single-use needles in a sanitized environment. When pre- and post-care instructions are followed, complications are rare.

Patch testing is recommended for clients with known sensitivities to makeup, metals, or hair dye.

WHAT IF I DON’T LIKE MY BROWS?

Cosmetic tattooing is a process, not an instant result.

Brows are mapped and approved prior to tattooing, but:

• Faces are naturally asymmetrical
• Healing varies
• Adjustments are made at the touch-up session

If no maintenance is done, brows will gradually fade over time.

IMPORTANT NOTES

• Existing cosmetic tattooing must be approved before booking
• Deposits are non-refundable
• Missed or canceled appointments result in forfeited deposits
• We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone we deem unsuitable